Jackie Parker Pooch Patrol

Stories and Letters

My Views On Jackie Parker Park And Why It Is Important To Me - In this letter I Abigail will be listing my strong opinions on the dog park. My three reasons that I will be listing in this letter is to hopefully show you how much this dog park means to my family (including my 3 adorable dogs).

#1. It is convenient to the people to live around it. For example: my family lives close enough to walk there and I am sure everyone has experienced that feeling when it’s cold and miserable and you don’t feel like going out and then you remember there’s a dog park close by and you feel overjoyed that you don’t have to look into your dogs disappointed eyes. I love the feeling when I know that I have not sat on my lazy butt all day!! If that was ever taken away from me my family or my dogs we would have to drive god knows how far out in the cold to go find a decent dog park. I understand the fact that a may be exaggerating this a little but I’m doing it to prove a point and to get it across to people.

#2. Also I enjoy the fact that it is an off leash area and I seriously hope that it will stay that way. For this reason I would like to share a story about my own life… One of my dogs is a Brittany Spaniel and if you know anything about this breed of dog it would be that they are a hunting dog (birds) so he has lots of energy particularly for running. As you already know from my first paragraph the convenient location provides us with a close and off leash Dog Park. Now you are probably wondering what this has to do with my story and I will tell you, if Cyrus (my dog) does not get out for a RUN he will go crazy in the house but more importantly (if you can believe it) it is unhealthy and unfair for him to be cooped up without the exercise that he needs and as a matter of fact it is more than unfair it is cruel (“the end”.) Again I know, I know I exaggerated it your probably saying big deal we make the park off leash it is one park people can find another one but sometimes it is not just the park itself sometimes it is just the memories you have of the park and I hope you understand.

#3. Now lastly, Edmonton is a growing city and as I am sure you already know and I do not know about you but I think fewer dog parks would be opposite of helpful. Most dogs are not indoor dogs they are not meant to say inside all the time they need a place where they can just be dogs. I sincerely hope this letter has made you stop and think more about the positives and negatives of making it not off leash.

Best wishes,
Abigail Age 12
 

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We brought 2 pups into our home four years ago. Had a dog as a child, but waited till our children were a teen and a preteen before the longing for a family pet overcame us. Since they were four months old, our 2 dogs lives have revolve around going to Jackie Parker Park! They instinctively know when we are going to the park. I can go upstairs and come down in jeans and a jacket with plans of going shopping, and they sit, looking longingly at me, some how knowing we are not going to the park. Later in the day I can come down in the same clothes (with the intention of taking them to the park), and they are whining, jumping, shaking slippers, and generally doing their happy dance! How do they know were going to the park? I haven't got a clue!!! But they live to go to the park!.

It's hard to play catch if you have your dog leashed on the side walk.There is no better exercise (run) for my dogs, and me, than going for a 45 minute walk a couple of times a day. I use to never walk in winter. Now I bundle up and go to Jackie for a walk no matter what the temperature.

If there is a childs play park on the other side of the roadway at JackieParker, there will not be problems from the off leash area as there are no dogs that ever go over to the otherside of the road, unless it is a stray (if we notice a stray at the off leash area we usually look for the owner or call authorities). In the four years we have been walking there, I have never seen an owner and dog go across the road. That will never change.

The social skills that our dogs have developed at the park are unbelievable. It doesn't matter how big or small the dog is, they are use to each other and like nothing better than running all together. Even the humans are happy people! Off leash dog walkers are about the friendliest people you will ever meet!

There is absolutely no reason why 2 different facilities, one for children and parents and one for dogs and families, cannot exist side by side.

Please keep our dog park.

Debbie
 

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I live in the Bonniedoon area and own 3 dogs. I drive to the Jackie Park as much as possible (weather permitting) to let the dogs run. Now I know that there are other off leash areas that are closer, but Jackie Park is safe to me. It is wide open, I don't have to worry about traffic, If the weather isen't good we don't have to slip around the ravine.

All the dog owners are great, responsible people, there is always other dogs to for mine to play with, no matter what time of day or night. It is always a busy park.

It would be a shame if they changed anything about this park. I believe that the dogs truly experience freedom in this park, and now adays that is a hard thing to come by.

Kim

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Subject: Eddy's Story

Dear Jackie Parker Pooch Patrol:

I am a regular user of the off leash area of Jackie Parker Park. There is a specific reason why I am a supporter of the off leash dog area. I am the owner and handler of an Autism Service Dog/Therapy Dog named Eddy. Eddy does works with specific students in two schools of the Edmonton Public School Board but he is in contact with over one thousand students and staff on a weekly basis. After Eddy’s working day, we go to Jackie Parker Park so that he can have physical exercise as well as an opportunity for Eddy to socialize with other dogs. Access to this park is essential for Eddy’s overall well being and promotes his ability to contribute to the community of Edmonton.

Sincerely yours,

Charles
 

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I have two medium sized shepherd cross dogs named Tilly and Taiga. They come to Jackie Parker Park every day of the year, regardless of weather, either with myself or with my husband.

We live in Woodvale, about a five minute walk from Jackie Parker Park. It is our first home, and we purchased it in 2003 specifically because of its proximity to the park.Our previous rental house was near an off-leash multi-use area, and we knew that a similar park would be essential to our health and wellbeing, and that of our dogs.

A severe reduction in the size, or a complete elimination of the park would be a heartbreaking loss for us. We would be forced to drive somewhere else, which affects our environmental impact and lifestyle in a very negative way. The only alternative is to cross 50th street at a very dangerous intersection where we have had many close calls with speeding cars in the past. The trail through Millcreek Ravine also feels less safe at night, especially for a woman walking alone. I feel much more comfortable at Jackie Parker, where there are so many other users.

The park has a strong user base of off-leash dog owners like ourselves who use it year round. It saddens me that there is a push to reduce the size in order to make way for an area that may not be used to its maximum potential by other users, and would perhaps only be used a few months of the year. I think that with appropriate education and good will on both sides, the off leash (multi-use) area can coexist harmoniously with the rest of the planned development on the north side of the road.

Jill
 

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Although we don'thave a real exciting or moving story to offer the committee, what we do have to say probably speaks for most of the people and dogs using the off leash area.

We have a 3 year old collie, which is a very active dog. He is the fourth large breed dog that we have owned in the past 20 years. Until this past summer, we have never tried the off leash areas. We have always walked our dogs 2 times a day in our neighbourhood. The dogs were not allowed to mingle freely with other dogs, and were always kept on leash. They were well behaved, but not socialized with other dogs.

Last summer, we started taking our collie to the off leash area by Jackie Parker Park, and were quickly embraced by the society of people and pets that we met there. Our dog is very well adjusted, and looks forward eagerly to going to the dog park regularly and meeting with dozens of 'friends'. Because he gets to run and play with other dogs, he is well adjusted, physically fit, muscled and has great stamina. Although our other dogs were happy and obedient, they did not reach the same level of fittness, and were not real 'balanced' pets. He knows how to be a dog, while dogs that don't play with dogs are usually treated like children.

We have met some of the nicest people at the off leash area and have really expanded our circle of friends. It is really great to be able to walk with our dog, among people who don't cringe or cross the street when they see a dog. Walking neighbourhood sidewalks is a bit of an obstacle course trying to avoid nervous people and city parkland that doesn't even allow dogs ON leash. In the off leash areas, no one is afraid of dogs, and they are understanding of dog behavior. They don't get upset when a dog approaches quickly or sometimes jumps up. They're not nervous about barking, or even a little growling. To be able to walk our dog without being concerned or apologetic is worth a lot.

We have become good friends with many dog owners and have coffee visits and 'play dates' at our homes. We have exchanged tips on grooming, feeding, training, boarding, and even veterinarians with others.

Most of the dogs at the park are well mannered, or are in the learning stages. We have never encountered an overly aggressive or vicious dog during our frequent visits and have not seen a dog fight or a person injured.

We are certainly willing to share our space with the general community, but we need to be realistic about multi use description. While tables and benches would be nice for dog owners and others to sit, visit and maybe drink coffee, it would not be appropriate to have an actual picnic area. Dogs could be disruptive and unpolite in that setting. Another thing that could create friction, would be cyclists using the trails in the off leash areas. Dogs have a tendancy to like to chase bikes (I know mine would not be able to resist).

In closing, we would like to ask the city to allow us to retain our off leash dog park. We will continue to make sure that our dogs don't go to the spray park or picnic areas to the North, and to encourage tolerance to non dog owners sharing the space for walking and visiting. Thanks for considering all input towards a fair decision.

Judy and Marty
 

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Hi.

My name is Mike, and I am the proud new owner of a 5 year old husky/collie mixed dog named Sumo. Sumo has LOTS of energy and I take him for 2 walks a day to try to keep him calm and relaxed at home. Sumo loves the off leash area at Jackie Parker Park and I don't know what we would do without it. He especially likes the wooded area and I like meetng other dog owners and getting a chance to socialize Sumo with other dogs.

While we are fairly new to the park I was disturbed to hear that there has been talk of loss or reduction to the park. I would like to pledge my support of the off leash park and if there is anything I can do to support its continuation, I would be more than willing to help.

Thank you
Mike and Sumo
 

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The Jackie Parker off-leash area is an extremely important part of our lives and the lives of our dogs. From my observation, it is a heavily used off-leash area and it has a large number of responsible and dedicated dog owners who work to benefit both dog owners and the community in general. There is little tolerance for those whose dogs misbehave, or if observed, for those who do not pick up after their dogs. Most of the people who use the off-leash area are conscientious about the rights of others who also enjoy the park. Considering the huge number of residents who use the park for off-leash, any plans to further develop Jackie Parker should ensure the inclusion of this very large percentage of park users.

We started taking our dogs to Jackie Parker about 10 years ago. In this park, our dogs learned to be lovely, well-socialized canines; a joy to anyone who encountered them. The park has given them the opportunity to do the kind of running they need to do in order to maintain healthy bodies, healthy spirits and to feel contented in the world. We take our dogs to off-leash daily. We depend heavily upon this facility.

Not only have our dogs made doggie friends, but we have also established acquaintanceships and friendships as a result of meeting other dogs owners at off-leash. In the same way a community league provides a social and community venue to people within that community, so do the off-leash parks provide social and community venues to those who come together to exercise and socialize their dogs.

At Jackie Parker, having the ravine available to the off-leash is extremely important. The field is wonderful, but in the summer it can be very hot. The ravine offers protection from the blistering sun for both dogs and their owners. In addition, the creek is a very valuable asset in helping the dogs keep cool. In winter, the field is terribly cold and exposed to cutting winds. Again, the ravine provides protection from the cold, especially for owners. Considering the attachment so many dog owners have to the park and its geography, out of common respect and decency, any changes to its use should be discussed with us before being implemented.

Jackie Parker off-leash is a treasure to dog owners and there are many, many dog owners. Playing with our dogs, exercising them and socializing with our neighbours and other members of the community is as much a recreational activity as baseball or soccer or cycling or any other activity. The needs of an off-leash area may not be entirely compatible with sports like baseball or soccer sharing the same space, but dog and owner socialization is of no less importance. For myself as a handicapped individual, I cannot participate in sports activities but I can and do get to off-leash daily in the spring, fall and winter because I can use my scooter to accompany my dogs and I can socialize at the park with the other dog-owner friends I have made over the past 10 years. I urge you to take my needs, and the needs of other dog owners, into consideration as plans evolve for the development for Jackie Parker. Thank you for your consideration.

Yours truly,
Paula
Mill Woods
 

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The Jackie Parker off-leash area has been a central part of our family’s and canine’s lives for over 11 years now. We discovered the park when we acquired 2 puppies within a few months in 1998. At that time we were not living very far from the park and I kept seeing vehicles with a dog turning in there. I went to investigate one day and discovered the off-leash area. The open field was perfect for them to learn those basics of “come”, “leave it”, and other commands necessary in the over all behavior process. We could keep an eye on both of them even if one was investigating a bush and the other playing near by with another four legged friend. It has been a critical place to socialize our puppies with other dogs. Here, they learned how to be good canine citizens and learned their manners. The ability to run is so critical to a dog’s physical, mental health and emotional well being. We take our dogs to off-leash daily and depend heavily on this facility. Since we have larger dogs (75, 85 & 120 lb) we need open running room as well as bush to investigate.

This off-leash area is heavily used. One of the main reasons I like it so much is there is little tolerance for badly behaved dogs or owners who do not pick up after their dogs. I know of individuals who were forced to stop coming to Jackie because of their badly behaved dogs. It was the pressure put on them by other users in the park that made those individuals stop bringing their badly behaved dogs to the park. Often a pick up bag is passed to an individual who either forgot or did not have enough for their canine’s needs. In the spring there are a number of individuals who voluntarily pick up the feces surfacing from melting snow long before the park clean up day. We, as a dog owner community, try to take care of the park.

II have arthritis and my partner can only exercise the dogs with a scooter. When I am walking, I cannot go to many off-leash areas in the SE zone as they have a lot of hilly or stepped terrains. Terwilligar and Buena Vista off-leash are a trial for me to access with the current Whitemud Drive construction and my work schedule that often leaves me traversing in rush hour. The flat field at Jackie Parker is a blessing for both myself and my partner. I appreciate so much the plowing the city does in winter snows. I know it is to clear the path for the garbage pick up but my knees and my older arthritic dog appreciate it too. It enables me to still do a full exercise walk with everyone. Our 2 younger dogs can plow through the belly deep snow and get a full work out, but most of the pee-mail is on the path. Walking through the deeper snow to do pick up is about as much as my knees can tolerate anymore.

Over time we have made several friends with other owners. It has become a social connection point for us as well. br />
I would not really want to see the size of the park area for dogs diminished in any way. I appreciate the cyclists and joggers coming through the park. My dogs learned this is all a part of normal life and their world belongs near me. I have heard some concerns about the children’s activity area across the road. While it would not be a concern for my canines, I think the problem could be alleviated by a low fence or barrier. I urge you to take my needs, and the needs of other dog owners, into consideration as plans evolve for the development for Jackie Parker. Thank you for your consideration.

Yours truly,
Kerri
AA Millwoods resident
 

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Several years ago in the springtime I was hiking in Jackie Parker Park and ran into a friend of mine. We came to a popular crossing but were unable to proceed safely due to melting ice. There were some sketchy crossings made out of fallen trees and junk wood if you were willing to risk your life over the icy water. I told her that someone should build a bridge at that spot. br />
She informed me that it was now officially my job to do it.

I did nothing to plan or prepare for this project but the seeds were planted and things started happening despite my lack of commitment.

11). Several long, thin metal frames from a business in Nisku were left at my place of employment for disposal.

2). I met a sawmill owner who was burning unwanted 23 inch long 2 X 4 cutoffs.

With very little investment of time or money the bridge was built and installed.br />
After the "Blue Bridge" was built I continued to receive building materials from all kinds of unexpected sources all arriving at the right times so the building continued along with some new trails and trail improvements.

To be honest most of this work was done for selfish reasons. I wanted some flowing single track trails where I could ride my bike near home. Working in the quiet serenity of the woods also helped bring calm and peace to my obsessive mind. I met many people from the local area and began to feel more of a connection to this community. Almost to my surprise the sheltered trails became popular with dog walkers. Soon the trails were being cleaned up, fallen trees removed and stairs built by other caring trail users. The park has evolved this way, without a plan, just as it should.

My neighbours brought home a dog from the SPCA and I began walking him in Jackie Parker Park as my "Part Time Pet". He moved in with us two years ago full time and is a regular at the park.

I had no idea how important this small piece of land was until it became "Off Limits" and the sheriffs were called in. I decided that I should not become directly involved in the battle due to my combative nature.

Obviously the right persons got involved and a compromise has been reached!

Thank you to everyone involved including the City of Edmonton for the decision that the sheltered trails in Jackie Parker Park can be shared by all.

Thanks for cleaning up and controlling your pooches.

See you on the trails!
Mad Bridge Builder of JPP

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Hi,

MMy name is Elizabeth. My family uses the Millwoods dog park with our 4 year old mix breed dog. I understand you are looking for impact stories.

We moved into Creeks Crossing 6 months ago in part because of the excellent dog parks around. We live a couple of blocks off the off-leash are in Minchau ravine. While this is a beautiful trail there are times when I don't feel safe walking my dog alone or with my daughter. This is due to the drug and alcohol use that has occurred frequently down there. Also there have been other users that have made it uncomfortable for me to walk there because they are uncomfortable or scared of dogs. It is one of the reasons I enjoy using the Millwoods dog park. It is open and safe and I also can get to to know other community members there too. My dog enjoys playing with the other dogs and getting a good leg stretch. This is especially important with our very small yard.

I was upset when the signs were posted forbidding us to use the trails on the west side. They are a lovely part of the park and really allow our dog and I to feel a little closer to nature. I understand there have been some home owners who do not feel their home boundaries are respected. I believe responsible dog ownership along with some strategic fencing (by the home owners or the city) can greatly reduce the problems. br />
I am interested in getting involved if you need any more help patrolling, advocating etc.

Thanks
Elizabeth
Off leash user

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Good morning, as we end one year and start a new I reflect on things that I have done and the positives in my life. The off leash @ Jackie Parker Park comes to mind.

My husband had given me a golden retriever years ago for our anniversary. Living in Millwood’s the Jackie Parker Park Off leash was so close and convenient we took her 4 or 5 times a week. She loved it, socializing, running and having a bit of an adventure with all those smells. We met new people, often remembering their dog’s names and not theirs, but also made friends which we met there on a regular basis; day, time and “do the loop” as we called it.

I would take her, my husband would take her and we’d often go as a family, our two girls being aged 8 & 10 thru to 17 & 19. It was a great time to spend together, you can learn a lot by walking and talking with your children. In all those years I didn’t see an off leash user on the park side, other than to go to their car and their dog was leashed at that point. Occasionally a non off leash user would come to “our “ side, children in particular where met with lots of love, wet kisses to the face or hands and our nugget was a great one for pulling off toques and mitts, which then became a game for all of us. I remember one Dad, who also used the off leash, would come with his 3 children which his dog pulled in their sled who would call out “hands up” if he’d see nugget before she saw them.

It makes me smile just thinking about it and I could go on for hours but should get back to work.

We lost nugget about 3 years ago, devastated our family as she went to soon, but our eldest daughter 2 years ago brought home a dog from the SPCA as she felt our family wasn’t complete without one. She and our other daughter now go to the off leash and have their own stories and experiences which I’ll let them share.

Thanks for this opportunity.

Susan

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Dear Pooch Patrol,

Our Miniature Schnauzer, Abby, means the world to us. She is there in the morning to wake us up with a quick lick of the face, she is there when we come home from work wagging her cute little tail, and she is there when its bed time, curled up at the end of the bed. I would do anything for my dog because well, she is family. This is why I am sending this e-mail, I want to tell you why Jackie Parker Park means so much to my family and especially to my dog!

II am a Registered Nurse at the University of Alberta hospital and like most nurses, I work shift work. I do not own a car, so I depend on the ETS to get around. To top that off, my boyfriend is a pilot and as you can imagine, is away from home a lot. That leaves my wonderful puppy, Abby, couped up in the house for the majority of the day. The only way my 10 month old dog gets any exercise is when she gets to go and run at the off-leash dog park right across from our house. The Jackie Parker Park is situated conveniently within walking distance of my home which works out great for my busy schedule as well as my boyfriend's. Furthermore, it gives Abby open space to run, get the exercise she needs and meet other dogs in a safe environment away from roads and cars. We love the park, it's a perfect size just the way it is, with wide open spaces, benches to sit on, and nice trails to walk and observe your dog.

If the Jackie Parker Park was to close down as an off-leash dog park, I don't know what I will do. There is no other off-leash park around my neighbourhood within walking distance to take my dog to let her run and get the exercise she needs. ETS does not allow dogs (except working dogs) on their buses, so I have no other way to take her to another off-leash dog park. br />
My family and I love Jackie Parker Park and we can only hope that it will stay a wonderful off-leash dog park! Please keep doing all that you can to keep it that way!

Thank you,
Lindsey

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OOur family would like to express our support for the Jackie Parker off-leash area. We and our 3 dogs frequent the park at least twice a week. It is one of our favorite parks as there are always many dogs to visit with. The combination of open grass and treed trails make the park perfect for any weather. We can escape the wind and explore in the trees, or visit on the common and enjoy the sun. Dog parks are the most well used green spaces in the city and it is one of the things that makes Edmonton a great place to live.

Recently there has been a restriction on walking in the treed areas off leash. I'm guessing the neighbors who got the benefit of building next to a park, don't actually like the public to use the park. It is a busy park, and isn't that GREAT? Why not put up a fence between the houses on the west and the treed area and give everyone back their space?

I challenge everyone in city council to spend a day at the park and learn about how well these parks are being used before making any decisions to cut or reduce off leash space. br />

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When I saw a notice at Jackie Parker Off-Leash Park the other day asking for people to contribute stories about what the park means to them, I knew I had to write.

WWe, my then 12 and 10-year-old daughters and I, first came to Jackie Parker Off-Leash Park (JPOLP) about 2 1/2 years ago when our flyball group starting meeting there in the summer for practice sessions. One of our three dogs, Austin, a 4-year-old border collie cross, was part of the club. Everyone in our club absolutely loved being able to practice outdoors instead of in our standard cramped indoor quarters. Then fall came, the weather cooled and we returned to our indoor practices. However, my daughters and I had had our first taste of what an off leash park was like, and we loved it! We started to regularly bring Charlie, our still very active 14-year- old collie-setter cross, and Bear, our smaller but energetic ten-year- old pomeranian, to the park. It was a huge hit with our 3 dogs to run free. Romp and play. Meet lots of other dogs. All the while wearing no leash!

Well that was 2 1/2 years ago, and since then we have made hundreds of trips to JPOLP. Sometimes I come alone with the 3 dogs after I drop off our 16-year-old daughter at school in the morning. Even at 8:15 AM there are always people there with their dogs, including a group of "regulars." Even when it is -20C they are still out there! Other times I come in the afternoon with one or two of my daughters. (We have 5 kids.) It is a great way to get some exercise and to talk with my teenage daughters. Some of the best conversations we have during the day are while we are walking at JPOLP. br />
I really appreciate it that in the winter the path through the park is graded. That is really great!

We come to JPOLP pretty much every day or every other day, and each time I love it. I love the exercise, my time with my daughters and watching our dogs romp and play free from the confines of a leash.

My family and I truly hope and pray that nothing about the park will be changed.

Cathy

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To whom it may concern,

Recently we have heard of the plans to decrease the size of the Jackie Parker Off-Leash Park and it disturbed us greatly. We love this park and the thought of the size being reduced is a great blow to us. We have two big dogs and in order to give them adequate exercise we must use the full size of the park. If the size was not as it is now, we would have to go to another park. This would greatly inconvenience us and in turn make it that our dogs would get walked less often resulting in excessive barking and destroying of things in the house.

Another reason is of the park’s open space, which gives it a much safer appeal for people walking alone. Unlike many other off-leash parks where one tends to go in the woods or out of sight of one’s car, Jackie Parker has a wide open area where one is always in view of other people and one’s car. This factor is a reason many elderly people come to Jackie Parker Park. Many elderly people have health issues, and if a medical emergency comes up, they are assured that people will find them quickly, rather than having the danger of lying in the woods for hours before someone stumbles across them.

Jackie Parker Off-Leash Park means so much to us and so many others, that we ask you to not decrease the size of this wonderful park.

Thank you,
Anna (age 14)
 

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MMy daughter and I walk our two Havanese, Indy and Hershey, every morning just before I drop her off at school. When the snow falls, we love to come to Jackie Parker off-leash, at around 8:00-8:15 AM every weekday, and take a stroll around the park. There we usually meet a regular group of about 10-12 other dog-owners, who always seem to have a nice treat for Indy and Hershey. I love these morning walks as it gives me such close time with my 11 year old daughter.

Every evening, my 13 year old boy will accompany me for a walk with the two dogs, and invariably it is at Jackie Parker as well. It's a different crowd in the afternoon, yet we still see so many familiar faces, make so many acquaintances who share our love of dogs, and Indy and Hershey meet so many friends as well. I am so pleased to let them run around in such an open and safe environment- our dogs are about 10 lbs apiece, and some of the bigger dogs are at least 10 times their size- yet I have always felt safe there, even with my children. br />
Besides bonding time with both my kids, the sheer exercise and fresh-air being outdoors and walking is just an exhilarating experience. Even when it got down to -40 C that couple of days in December, the dogs loved their daily walks at Jackie Parker. Then when spring and summer comes, hiking down in the ravine trail makes you feel like you're miles outside Edmonton in the countryside somewhere.

I think Jackie Parker off-leash is such a great facility, maybe the best off-leash in the city, and so very important to our family.

Sincerely,

Victor

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I am a retired senior. My wife and I are owners of a five year old Standard Poodle/Airedale cross dog. Mandy is very friendly to (most) other dogs, but is particularly friendly towards their owners, because they just might have some cookies to offer a friendly dog. I take Mandy for her daily walk at the off leash area at Jackie Parker Park.

We are particularly fond of this off leash area because we have found that both the owners and the dogs who frequent this park are the most friendly that we have encountered. There are surprisingly few fights between dogs, and the owners are always prompt in admonishing their own dogs and are believers in the old adage that ‘dogs will be dogs’. The area is well used and on most days there are many dogs that Mandy can play with.

I have had my right knee replaced, walk with a cane and greatly appreciated the open area that is well maintained in the spring through to the fall and that a broad path is cleared in winter.

IIf this area were closed, I would have to travel to the Strathcona off leash area. This area is currently under construction and is going to be muddy, rutted, with trails having many surface roots (that I find hazardous) for a number of years to come. Besides, the people and dogs are not nearly as friendly.

It is our sincere hope that a reasonable accommodation can be made to allow Jackie Parker Park to be used as a multi use park –including the off-leash area. br />
Allan

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Three years ago we had two of our 3 dogs pass away with in 1 week of each other. This was devastating for my husband and I. I found this loss even more heart wrenching as I had just lost my mother a year before. I had found comfort in walking our dogs every night. All of a sudden we found ourselves with 1 dog to walk. We tried to walk our usual walking path around our neighbor hood that we had walked so many times before with all 3 of the dogs. It was just to difficult, to many reminders. Besides our selfs grieving – we noticed our beloved Nelson also had become very solemn and sad. He was for the first time the only dog in the house and had no canine companionship.

It was then we decided to take him to an off leash park that we had heard of on 50th street. Jackie Parker Park. I truly believe that it was one of the best decisions we have ever made. For both Nelson and ourselves. What we discovered was it was much more than just a park. We have met and made some truly wonderful friendships there. Our dogs can interact with other dogs. We can walk and exercise so can our canine companions. I find going to the park truly therapeutic, People benefit emotionally and physically. People with a common passion get to interact. The other thing I have noticed is this park is used everyday year round, at all hours of the day. Not a day goes by that some that there isn’t people at the park.

Another benefit of the off leash park is I feel this city is becoming increasingly unsafe for a person to walk alone. Where as if I walk my small dogs at Jackie Parker Park with out my husband, I don’t worry as there is always someone I know there. Also people always look out for one another at the park. There is a very caring atmosphere there.

I think it is very important for people as well as animals that we do not loose this off Leash Park. The benefits to the people and animals that use this park are phenomenal

Thank You

Luanna

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Hi: We moved here from Calgary where we had an off-leash area right out our back yard fence. Our dog, (a Shepherd X) loved it and we were dismayed when we moved to Edmonton (back in 1991) to find that there were no off-leash areas ANYWHERE. We participated in trying to get the City of Edmonton to have off-leash areas and, eventually, won. That is called "progress" and providing useful spaces for people within the community. Now, the City wants to be "regressive" and either change or take away our much used dog park. This Park is a gem in our community and we can't allow the City to change it's use.

My name is Angela and our dog is Radar. Radar is a loveable terrier-X and loves running. He runs his little heart out and Jackie Parker Park is the ONLY place he can do that without me, the owner, worrying about him running into the street or being involved in a dangerous situation. As a person who is getting "longer in the tooth" everyday, I can't go jogging, running or skate boarding (OMG) with him to release his energy so the dog park is my only option. He LOVES meeting other dogs to play and ... run with them. When we leave home and reach the intersection of 44 Ave and 50th St. he knows where we're going and starts whining because he's so excited. I, too, am excited because I know how much he loves going there. It would be criminal to change this meeting area where people and canines visit, laugh, interact with fellow community members. What a jewel it is!!

Angela

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After a devastating marriage breakup in 2005, and getting my dog back in 2006, I was very lucky to pick Jackie Parker Park to walk my dog in. Since 2006, I have met some very wonderful people and dogs, and we now form a very cohesive “morning” group. The earliest of us gets there at 7:00 am – and I drive in from Sherwood Park every day to meet with “The Flaps” (Fun-Loving, Awesome People). The dogs all know and love each other too, and they have a great time running (in the field most days, in the ravine when it is either too cold or too hot). We go for coffee after the dog walk every morning, spreading our business between the two Tim Horton’s in the area and the McDonalds on 75th Street. Those with young grandchildren have brought them along to meet the dogs, which they love, and we oldies love to listen to four-year old chatter afterwards at coffee.

We have had many adventures, including a car being broken into, rescuing a drunk or drug addict from wandering on to 50th Street, picking up garbage left by the “night abusers”, and rescuing one of our members having a heart attack. He, by the way, now does his power walking exercise in the morning. Many of us have gone on short trips together – and we always help each other out when needed.

Thanks to Jackie Parker Dog Park, I have the very good friends that I have today. It would be a shame and disaster to loose even part of the off leash area, since it brings many, diverse people together in a very cohesive way and benefits the physical, emotional and mental health of many.

Lynne

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When I turned thirty-five I injured a disk in my lower back and was no longer able to do all the things I loved to do – swim, bike, dance, yoga, etc. The one thing I could do was walk. I quickly realized I wasn’t very motivated to do this alone so I adopted a Greyhound and a few years later added a Great Dane to my “family”.

We head out twice a day to the off leash areas. In the mornings it’s a quick 15-30 minute walk at the Mill Creek Ravine off leash (which is just a couple of blocks away). Our evening and weekend walks range from 1-2 hours and we are frequent visitors to the Jackie Parker off-leash area. The woods are a great place for hide and seek but more importantly the large green space is the perfect place for my Dane to practice her soccer skills and generally roar around without fear (my fear, not hers) of smacking into a tree or getting a tree/root/rock through the foot/chest (particularly in winter when these can be hidden under the snow). And of course there are so many dogs to play with!

A trip to Jackie Parker also means “grandma and grandpa” will usually join us on our walk as they live near the park. And frequently it means a Tim’s coffee for us and timbits for the dogs. It’s no wonder Jackie Parker is a favorite for both us and our dogs!

And last (but certainly not least) there are all the wonderful people and dogs we have gotten to know over the years. Because it’s not just about the dogs and the exercise – it’s also about bragging about your dogs ;)

Kim

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We used to drive to this dog of -leash area to give our dog a run.... as a “walk” is simply insufficient for most dogs, and for some dogs a run is a necessity for health and happiness.

Last spring we sold our house and moved specifically to this area... our patio doors back onto an off-leash area and the off-leash dog park is within walking distance. The ability to walk/run keeps our dog and me and my husband healthy.

There is no reason why people and dogs cannot live together as they have lived together for thousands of years.

Yours truly

Irene and John

 

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Hello,

Much like probably everyone else who takes their dog to JP Park, I too am upset that the ravine area has been taken away from us. It used to be a little sanctuary for my dog and me to walk through after playing fetch for an hour.

However I can now see the other side of the story and here’s why. I have had enough off all the dog crap left on the ground; I guess the only good thing about leaving dog excrement on the snow is at least you can see it. I clean up after my dog no matter where he goes. That is what being responsible means. The last few days at the park have made me feel sick and also reaffirmed that most people (not all) suck!

After walking through the mine field that is Jackie Parker Park, I think it would serve a great lesson to all those irresponsible dog owners if we lost the park altogether! I wouldn’tcare; I’d find somewhere else to go with my dog.

There are 4 certainties in life:
1. Death
2. Taxes
3. Your dog will take a crap at the park
4. Snow does not dissolve dog shit

So shame on all of you who “fail to notice” your dog dropping a steaming parfait on the ground and thanks for putting the use of the park in jeopardy.

Please feel free to share my email.

Thanks, J Stevens

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First off I want to say a big thank you to the women and men who have been involved to date to work with the city so that dogs/owners and non dog owners can co-exist peacefully. I am VERY passionate about keeping the park and the trails off leash and am willing to help out in any way possible.

I purchased a home within walking distance of the Jackie Parker off leash Park only 2 years ago. When shopping for a home I was looking specifically at homes very near to the off leash park, it was one of my main priorities as I have a large lab/rotti cross named Gator (who is extremely friendly I might add, does not chase bikes, loves people and dogs equally and is phenomenal with children). I previously lived further south in Millwoods but found it inconvenient, especially in the winter, to load him up into the vehicle to take him to the park. Since he is a big dog, he needs to RUN. Although I have a large back yard for him (it's amazing how we base most of our home purchasing decisions around our dogs :) he is not able to open up and let go in the back yard like he can at the dog park. He is also a very social dog and loves to play with other dogs, and meet other people, which the dog park provides. Since moving to our new home he and I have been a regular at the Jackie Parker Park. I will be extremely disappointed if the park is no longer off leash as it gives me very little reason to stay in the neighbourhood.

I'm sure everyone is aware of how important socialization is for dogs, which off leash dog areas provide. Having the park makes for better behaved, trained and socialized dogs (the big open space is ideal for training) and gets the dog owners out for a walk as well, thus contributing to a healthier population. I have also noticed that the community surrounding the off leash park is very 'dog friendly'. They all seem to love dogs, come out and pet your dog, and talk to them over the fence (sometimes even feeding them over the fence as well!) so it comes as a surprise to me that there are members of the community that are opposed to the off leash nature of the park. I have been using the Jackie Parker off leash dog park for 6 years now and have never seen an unfortunate incident occur (dog fight, person being bit, etc.). Many people even bring their young children to the park and let them run around amongst the dogs.

It has been a great opportunity for me to meet and get to know my neighbours and those in my community. There is a group of neighbours that convene in the park every morning around 8 am and they bring a big pack of dogs with them. They always invite you to walk and chat with them, and take the time to get to know you. It's also great for me as I am a long distance runner and Gator is my training partner. I plan my long run routes around off leash areas in the city and creeks/and or the river to allow him time off leash (dogs muscles are anaerobic by nature, they are not designed to be able to run at a constant speed for long distances, they need to run fast for a short while, then take a break and pee on a tree or something :), and areas to dip into the water and cool off (he's black) and have a drink. The Jackie Parker off leash area is perfect for this and I usually begin and end my long runs in this area for the reasons I just listed. And to top it all off, Gator met his biological brother at the Jackie Parker off leash area!

Amy

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Lucy is my black Labrador retriever cross who has been my constant companion for the last two years. Lucy spent her first few years on a farm with the ability to roam where she wished. Bringing her into the city, I realized we would need an area where she would have the freedom to safely run and do what retrievers do--retrieve, and have the companionship of other animals as was her experience on the farm. What I didn't realize was how important the Jackie Parker off-leash area was to my well-being.

As far as areas in which to walk are concerned, we do have a choice--the area beside Velma Baker School, our neighborhood and the J. Parker Park. I soon found that the first two were only desperation areas in which to walk. There is such a difference in Lucy when we are at the J.P. Park. In the other areas we do not contact many other people or dogs; at J.P. there is an unlimited number of contacts for Lucy and me. We both are social animals and need the contact. Lucy originally would not go near people; now she runs up to most and asks for attention. With other dogs she chases, is chased, fetches a ball, plays tug of war with sticks and just rips around in the snow and the trees (once in a while she escapes into the water as well). When we walk in other areas, Lucy's tail is usually between her legs and she stays very close to me; at J.P. she runs everywhere, within the limits I set, with her tail and ears flying, her head up, and light in her eyes; she jumps to get the ball from my hand and barks for the ball to be thrown. When it is time to come home from other areas, she hops right into the car; at J.P. I often have to bribe her to get into the car. On days when it is too cold to go to the park, she butts me and puts her head on my knee; the message is clear.

Personally, I have come to know many of the people at the park and I look forward to the break from caring for my parents and becoming involved in the lives of others. The love of our animals creates an automatic bond between us. It is rejuvenating to have this contact and to walk in the bush enjoying the smells and sounds I love so much. I have taken my 94 year old father with me at times and his spirits are remarkably better with the contacts he makes with other people and the dogs.

Safety is a major concern of mine as well. I live in Fountain Lake. There has been a murder on our block and our next door neighbor was killed in an altercation with other drunk and high teenagers a few blocks away. I have heard stories from my neighbors about some of the teens in our area and I am not relaxed when I meet people on our street. I have called the police twice in the last four years because of bat-wielding neighbors about to go after each other in front of my house. I do not feel safe walking alone with Lucy in our area--there are not enough 'safe' people around. At J.P. there are large numbers of 'safe' people I trust and on whom I feel I could rely if either Lucy or I were hurt.

The variety in the landscape at J. P. is also important to me. I am 61 and recovering from back injuries. Having the flat and hilly areas gives me the opportunity to exercise a variety of muscles. The bush area on windy, cold days and on very hot days is important to my comfort. I am much more willing to walk where I can be sheltered from the elements.

As a retired teacher, I love the interaction between Lucy and children in the area. It gives me the opportunity to teach both the children and Lucy how to communicate safely with another species. As we know, animals can be a great asset in the well-being of humans and children miss out greatly if they have never bonded with a dog.

Lucy and I love the Jackie Parker off-leash area and plan to make it a daily part of our lives for many years to come.

Wendy

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